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A Level Government and Politics at Ricards Lodge High School

Course description

If you are interested in finding out more about how governments and political systems work or want to find out more about political ideas and issues, or are simply keen to study a new and exciting subject, then this subject will interest you. Below you can
read the “dry” descriptive explanation of what you will study; in practical terms if you have wondered who Farage is and if he is a joke or messiah, or why Obama enthused the world but failed to change America (or has he?) or if Russell Brand really can change
politics then Government and Politics is for you.

A-level Government and Politics will give you a detailed understanding of domestic and international political systems, and enable you to develop arguments, present your findings and express your opinions. It provides many opportunities for discussion and
debate, and complements the study of many other AS subjects, such as History and Philosophy extremely well.

Course content

As a politics student in Year 12, you will examine the key debates and issues regarding the UK political system. You will consider the role of participation and elections in a democracy, as well as examine the changing role of the main political parties
and the growing importance of pressure groups. You will also consider the significance and relationship of key political institutions in the UK such as Parliament, the Prime Minister, the Cabinet and the Constitution and the people who and politicians that
occupy them.

The second year of the course provides an introduction to the American political system through an analysis of the elections, political parties and pressure groups. Later in the year you will examine the key political institutions of the USA, including the
Presidency, Federal Bureaucracy, Congress and the Supreme Court. The examining board rewards students for their knowledge of relevant political events and therefore you should have an active interest in news and current affairs.

Entry requirements

GCSE English Language grade C or higher and ideally GCSE History Grade C.

Assessment

A2 level:
• Unit 3A: The Politics of the USA: written examination (50% of A2, 25% of total)

• Unit 4A: The Government of the USA: written examination (50% of A2, 25% of total).

Future opportunities

Government and Politics is a highly respected academic subject amongst Russell group universities with strong links to other subjects in higher education such as History, Geography and Law. Possible careers include advertising, broadcasting, journalism,
law, marketing, local government, civil service, public relations and teaching.

How to apply

If you want to apply for this course, you will need to contact Ricards Lodge High School directly.

The combined 6th form of Ricards Lodge High School and Rutlish School offer students at every academic level access to courses in all curriculum areas including our specialist subjects – Mathematics, Computing, Performing and Visual Arts – ensuring access to University Education and a wide range of vocational careers. As a 6th form student at RR6 you will benefit from our commitment to first class teaching and also to providing a pastoral framework that will support you in becoming an independent achiever. Our Director of Sixth Form will work across both schools to ensure the quality and continuity of support, advice and guidance.

You will also have access to new, high quality accommodation and resourcing including a learning resources centre, wi-fi facilities and specialist classroom space.